There is no intention for the ISCE to be a re-enactment of the original expedition, but to provide a fitting focus, tribute and commemoration of their achievements by incorporating some of the methods, routines and locations utilised by Scott and his men.

Purpose

To celebrate the centenary of Captain Scott’s last expedition, commemorate the deaths of the Polar Party and to support the continuation of their work through the Scott Polar Research Institute.

Objectives

• Undertake an expedition to Antarctica in January 2012 to visit the last tent site of Scott and his Polar Party and hold a commemoration service. In doing so to rise to the adventure of a challenging environment and involve people from multiple backgrounds and ages.
• Inspire the leaders of tomorrow and the community at large through an education outreach and media programme.
• Raise awareness of and funds for the Scott Polar Research Institute in order to support the living memorial dedicated to Scott and the Polar Party.

The Expedition

Just as Captain Scott involved as many people as possible in his expedition to represent as many interests as possible, so will the ISCE. This will be achieved through schools and public outreach programmes and through a dynamic range of participation in parties on the ice – the Sledge Party and the Flight Party.

The Sledge Party

The Sledge Party will attend the memorial service by forming a tribute man-hauling party who will follow the route taken by the Search Party of 1912. The team will travel with full supplies from Scott’s original Base to where the tent of the Polar Party was found. On completion of the service they will return overland – a journey of 290 miles. The team will consist of:

• Established polar explorers and adventurers
• Members of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces
• Youth Members
• Novice Expeditioners
• Media team

The Flight Party

No commemoration would be complete without the descendants of Scott and his men. Descendants, major sponsors and representatives from organisations with links to the original expedition will be flown into Antarctica to join the Sledge Party for the memorial service, reminding us that real human lives form the heart of these epic stories. Participants may include:

• Descendants of the five Polar families
• Expedition Patrons
• Major sponsors
• Representatives of Polar Organisations
• Senior Representatives of Her Majesty’s Armed Forces